How to Choose the Right Light Fixture for Any Room
If you’re looking to make some updates to your home, what about adding new light fixtures to your rooms? A new light fixture can add a new dimension to any space, and with so many interesting options to choose from, including chandeliers, recessed lights, track lighting, and pendant lights, you can update the look of your home with ease.
What Type of Light Fixtures Should I Choose?
Your choice of light fixture depends on several factors, but you should start by identifying the type of light you need.
Ambient Light
Ambient light is used to illuminate an entire room and should be bright enough so you can see what you are doing. When choosing an ambient light fixture, it’s important to consider the size of the space. You don’t want your light fixture to overpower the room, so pick one that’s the right size for the space. If you have high ceilings, a chandelier-style fixture might work well. Conversely, cater to a lower ceiling height by choosing recessed lighting or simple track lighting that is less conspicuous.
Task Lighting
Task lighting is used to focus light on certain areas of the room. This kind of lighting is commonly used to provide more direct light on kitchen countertops, stoves, or workstations, making it easier to work on more detailed tasks with ease. Wall sconces on either side of the bathroom mirror make it easier to apply makeup, while pendant lights over the kitchen island are great when the kids are doing homework, and you’re busy chopping veggies.
Accent Lighting
Accent lighting is perfect to accentuate certain features in the home, including architectural elements or decorations. You may choose accent lighting to illuminate your favourite photographs or bring attention to wall art, vases, or other treasured ornaments.
How To Choose the Right Fixture
Work With the Decor in the Room
Match your light fixture to the furniture in the room; maybe you want to match it to a specific piece, such as a sofa or a table. If your furniture is modern, pick a fixture that reflects this style. If the furniture is simple, you can use your light fixture to serve as a focal point and pick something a little more fancy.
Consider Other Hardware
You can also match your light fixture to door handles and knobs. If, for example, your doorknobs are gold, a silver light fixture won’t work. Instead, look for a finish that will complement the other hardware in the room.
Do You Want the Fixture to Blend In or Stand Out?
If you like the idea of positioning your light fixture as a piece of art, there are some really cool designs out there. In this case, choose something bold that stands out.
If you prefer to minimize the look of your fixtures, recessed lights work well as they provide a nice level of ambient light while being unobtrusive. Installing these light fixtures takes a little extra work, so we recommend hiring an electrical contractor to do this. Recessed lighting is also ideal for smaller spaces, as it helps to maximize the ceiling height, making the room seem larger.
What Type of Bulbs Do You Need?
Take note of the type of bulbs your fixture needs. Look for fixtures that use regular bulbs that are easy to find. Some manufacturers design light fixtures that need specialized bulbs, so factor in the cost of these light bulbs when selecting your fixture.
Control the Mood with a Dimmer Switch
Dimmer switches give you complete control over your lighting by increasing the light when you need it and turning it down at night when you’re getting ready for bed. Dimmed lights are calming and can help you get in the mood to relax.
Hire an Electrician in St. Albert
If you are looking for an electrician who can install light fixtures and dimmer switches, give us a call. We guarantee a high quality of work and have the experience to meet all of your electrical servicing needs.